Device and System for Electrically Stimulating the Eye

This application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2024/075868, filed on Sep. 17, 2024, which claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2023 125 136.8, filed on Sep. 18, 2023, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

The present disclosure relates to a device, in particular for electrostimulation of the eye, and a system for electrostimulation of the eye, in particular for transcorneal electrostimulation, wherein the device comprises a spectacle-like frame with a nose part, an arrangement connected to the nose part for holding the frame on the head of the user, and at least one holder arranged at the frame for an element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user, in particular for a wire-shaped stimulation electrode.

WO 2011/086150 A2 generally discloses stimulation electrodes, electrode holders, and devices for electrostimulation.

The known stimulation electrode is a wire-shaped electrode which is attached to the spectacle-like frame. When the frame is being arranged on the head of a patient, the flexible wire electrode comes during putting on the spectacle-like frame into contact with the front surface of the eye in the lower edge region of the cornea of the eye. A counter electrode is either provided on the frame or is attached separately at the patient, for example on forehead of the head or on an earlobe.

The wire electrode and the counter electrode can be used to route a pulse-like electrostimulation signal into the eye, leading to a stimulation current flowing via the cornea into the eye.

The known device and other devices are used to route electrostimulation signals into the eye because it was found that this can stabilize or even improve certain forms of retinopathia pigmentosa and other eye diseases.

Retinal degeneration is a significant cause of blindness in industrialized countries. Various trials provide indications that low electrical currents which flow through the retina can delay the onset of genetic, age-related or sudden degeneration of the retina.

This opens up the possibility of being able to delay the gradual loss of sight through of regular, that is to say e.g. daily or weekly, electrostimulation of the eye in order thus to maintain parts of the vision for longer in affected patients, or even restore parts of the vision.

Expediently, this treatment should be carried out by the patient himself and at home. In doing so, in the extreme case, the assumption must be made that the patient is practically blind. The result of this is that there are significant demands on the device and the stimulation electrode mentioned at the outset.

This is because the wire-shaped stimulation electrode must be replaced after every use, or at least very frequently. On the one hand, the wire-shaped stimulation electrode is a very thin electrode, which can break in the case of improper or even frequent use.

On the other hand, considerations in respect of hygiene may make it necessary to replace the stimulation electrode after each use.

WO 2011/086150 A2, mentioned at the outset, describes three different embodiments for these applications.

In a first embodiment, the device for electrostimulation of the eye is designed in the style of spectacles, with spiral electrode holders, which extend towards the eye, thereby being provided on the frame which is usually provided for the lenses. Two such electrode holders are provided for each eye, and so a wire electrode needs to be connected to the two inner ends of these flexible electrode holders in order to come into contact with the cornea when the spectacles are put on.

In a second embodiment, a facemask is shown, which is fitted over an area to parts of the face of the patient. Eye openings, on which pushbuttons are provided, into which the wire-shaped stimulation electrodes are hooked, are provided in this facemask.

In a third embodiment, a type of “shooting spectacles” is shown, in which the spectacles-like frame comprises a nose clip and two eye brackets coming off the former, which eye brackets are in turn connected to foldable earpieces.

Each two electrode holders are attached to the eye brackets; said electrode holders can be adjusted along the eye bracket and perpendicular to the eye bracket, i.e., in all three directions.

On their inner free ends, the electrode holders are respectively connected to ears, into which the wire-shaped stimulation electrode is introduced. The stimulation electrode is attached with its first end to the nose-side electrode holder and is then routed through an ear to the temple-side electrode holder. At its second end, the stimulation electrode is weighed down by a weight such that the stimulation electrode is pretensioned in this manner.

A person skilled in the art fits this frame to the head of the patient such that, when such spectacles which are equipped with one or two stimulation electrodes are put on, the stimulation electrode automatically rests against the eye. A further device that is intended to enable flexible adjustment with many degrees of freedom is described in WO 2015/104313 A1. Upon one-time adjustment, the device is firmly fixed with a clamping screw as a fixing device.

While a person skilled in the art sets the geometric conditions of the frame on one occasion, the patient should subsequently use the device at home in order to subject his eyes to regular electrostimulation.

However, hooking the stimulation electrode into the ears or onto the electrode holder, which is required for this, is found to be extremely difficult for patients with visual impairments. In part, the thin electrode thread is not recognized by the patients or said electrode thread can slide out of the electrode holders when the spectacles frame is put on.

In order to prevent this, the stimulation electrode must be wound a number of times around the holder at the nose-side electrode holder. This requires much dexterity because, firstly, the thread is rigid and, secondly, the patients have to resort to their sense of touch as a result of their visual impairment.

Against this background, DE 10 2011 055 844 B4 discloses a further improved stimulation electrode arrangement for a device for electrostimulation of the eye. The device comprises a spectacle-like frame with a nose part, an arrangement connected to the nose part for holding the frame on the head of the patient, and at least one electrode holder, which is arranged on the nose part in adjustable fashion, for the wire-shaped stimulation electrode. The stimulation electrode arrangement comprises an electrode carrier, which can be attached to the electrode holder in detachable fashion and on which the stimulation electrode is arranged. In an embodiment, the electrode carrier is formed as a U-shaped bracket with two arms and a groove open to the outside. The solution described in DE 10 2011 055 844 B4 provides a stimulation electrode arrangement of the type mentioned above, which is easy to handle and also facilitates handling for visually impaired patients.

In the solution described in DE 10 2011 055 844 B4, the patient shall only need to grip the stimulation electrode arrangement by the electrode carrier, which is much more massive than the thin stimulation electrode, and attach this electrode carrier in the electrode holder which is already present and adjusted on the device.

Since the electrode carrier has a greater mass and greater dimensions than the stimulation electrode itself, visually impaired or even blind patients can feel the electrode carrier and insert it, in the correct position, into the electrode holder.

In view of the above, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a device, in particular for electrostimulation of the eye, which further improves handling and enables a more comfortable user experience. In particular, it would be desirable to facilitate the application of an element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, it is therefore proposed to provide a device, in particular a device for electrostimulation of the eye, wherein the device comprises a spectacle-like frame with a nose part, an arrangement connected to the nose part for holding the frame on the head of the user, and at least one holder arranged at the frame for an element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user, in particular for a wire-shaped stimulation electrode, wherein the holder is adapted to be moved back and forth (relative to the frame) between a non-engagement position and a predefined engagement position.

Conventional devices for electrostimulation of the eye usually require two people to apply the spectacles equipped with the stimulation electrodes to the eyes. While an assistant places the spectacles with the stimulation electrodes on the user and simultaneously, during putting on the spectacles, applies the stimulation electrodes on the eyes, the user holds both eyes open with their hands and ensures that the stimulation electrodes do not collide with the eyelashes.

When putting on the spectacles of a conventional electrostimulation device, in particular when the earpieces of the spectacles are threaded or inserted behind the user's ears, a kind of slight sawing motion can occur, i.e., a movement in which the stimulation electrodes are pulled across the eyes of the users in the longitudinal direction of the stimulation electrodes, which can be perceived as uncomfortable by users.

It is therefore proposed that the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, such as a stimulation electrode or contact lens, should not be provided in a rigidly fixed position relative to the spectacle-like frame of the device for the user. Instead, it is proposed to provide a holder arranged at the frame, wherein the holder is adapted to be moved back and forth relative to the frame between a non-engagement position and a predefined engagement position.

As described at the outset, no holder is provided in conventional electrostimulation devices that is adapted accordingly. At most, a one-time adjustment is made to the user's anatomy. The adjustment is fixed, for example, by an ophthalmologist. In subsequent applications, the pre-fixed device with attached electrode holders is put on by the user or an assistant, i.e., the electrodes come into contact with the cornea during placing or putting on the spectacles.

In contrast, the proposed device can be put on first, wherein the holder still is in the non-engagement position. In the non-engagement position, however, the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user is not yet in contact or engagement with the eye of the user, even when the device is worn in place. Only after placing or putting on is the holder moved from the non-engagement position to the predefined engagement position. In the predefined engagement position, when the device is worn the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user is in engagement or contact with the eye of the user in a predefined position. Instead of in a random manner making contact with the eye of the user, the engagement position of the device is predefined and the holder is specifically adapted to be moved to this predefined engagement position.

The predefined engagement position can be adjusted, for example, by an expert, such as an ophthalmologist. For example, a stop or end stop can be set at which the holder can rest or abut against in the predefined engagement position. For subsequent application, the user can move the holder back and forth between the non-engagement position for placing or putting on the device and the predefined engagement position. In other words, a predefined engagement position within the meaning of the present disclosure can refer to a predetermined or definable or presetable engagement position. In particular, the device can comprise an, in particular adjustable, stop (a limiting device), which is adapted to limit the movement of the holder in the predefined engagement position in a spatial direction. However, it is also possible that the engagement position can be adjusted by adjusting one or more elements of the holder, which in the engagement position can abut against a non-adjustable predetermined stop. The device can be adapted to limit or prevent movement of the holder beyond the predefined engagement position in the direction of the eye in the predefined engagement position. However, the device is still adapted to enable movement of the holder between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position. An advantage of this solution can be that it further improves handling for visually impaired users and can enable a more comfortable user experience.

Since the device is adapted to provide a predefined engagement position and since the device is adapted to not simply be moved arbitrarily, but is adapted to be moved back and forth between a non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position, a reproducible positioning of the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, in particular a stimulation electrode on the eye surface, is possible in the engagement position. In particular, reproducible positioning by an untrained user is also made possible.

The device can be a device for electrostimulation of the eye. The holder can be an electrode holder for a (wire-shaped) stimulation electrode or stimulation electrode arrangement. The stimulation electrode arrangement can comprise a first electrode carrier and a second electrode carrier, wherein the stimulation electrode is arranged between the first electrode carrier and the second electrode carrier, wherein the first and/or second electrode carrier is adapted to be magnetically attached to the electrode holder.

The solutions described in their own earlier applications mentioned at the outset already significantly improve the handling of a stimulation electrode for electrostimulation of the eye for visually impaired users. However, the precise placement of the stimulation electrode arrangement on the electrode holder may continue to cause difficulties for visually impaired users. According to this aspect, it is therefore proposed that the stimulation electrode arrangement comprises a first electrode carrier and a second electrode carrier, wherein the stimulation electrode is arranged between the first electrode carrier and the second electrode carrier, wherein the first and/or second electrode carrier is adapted to be magnetically attached to the electrode holder.

By magnetically attaching the electrode carrier to the electrode holder, handling is further facilitated for visually impaired users. The electrode carrier and electrode holder attract each other magnetically, allowing a certain degree of self-positioning of the electrode carrier and electrode holder relative to each other. Approximate or imperfect positioning of the electrode holder, as it can also be achieved by a visually impaired user, can therefore be sufficient to magnetically receive the electrode carrier.

A further advantage of this embodiment can be that hygiene can be improved when handling a stimulation electrode arrangement for a device for electrostimulation of the eye. Due to the electrode carrier adapted to be magnetically attached to the electrode holder, fewer attempts by the visually impaired user to correctly attach the electrode carrier to the electrode holder may be required. This reduces the risk of contamination being inserted into the eye due to improper handling and further improves hygiene during handling.

In the context of the present disclosure, a stimulation electrode arrangement can refer to an electrode assembly for stimulating and/or measuring. Accordingly, a stimulation electrode can refer to an electrode for stimulating and/or measuring. In other words, not only can an electrostimulation signal be delivered, but a measurement signal can also be recorded. For example, with the stimulation electrode or stimulation electrode arrangement, a stimulus can be applied or an electroretinogram or ERG signal can be acquired. Accordingly, in the context of the present disclosure, a device for electrostimulation of the eye can refer to a device for stimulating and/or measuring. Accordingly, in the context of the present disclosure, a system for electrostimulation of the eye can refer to a system for stimulating and/or measuring.

The device can comprise two separate holders, a left holder for an element to be brought into engagement with a left eye of the user, in particular for a stimulation electrode for the left eye, and a right holder for an element to be brought into engagement with a right eye of the user, in particular for a stimulation electrode for the right eye. An advantage can be that handling is further improved.

In a further refinement, the left holder and the right holder can be adapted to be moved separately from each other back and forth between a respective non-engagement position and a respective engagement position. In other words, the left holder can be adapted to be moved back and forth independently of the right holder between a non-engagement position for the left holder and an engagement position for the left holder, in which an element to be brought into engagement with the user's left eye can be brought into engagement with the user's left eye. Accordingly, the right holder can be adapted to be moved back and forth independently of the left holder between a non-engagement position for the right holder and an engagement position for the right holder, in which an element to be brought into engagement with the user's right eye can be brought into engagement with the user's right eye. This further simplifies handling. For example, the user himself can hold the eye open with one hand and move the respective holder for the eye from the non-engagement position to the engagement position with the other hand.

The holder can be adapted to move back and forth between an adjustable predefined non-engagement position and/or an adjustable predefined engagement position. In other words, the non-engagement position and the engagement position (treatment position) can be predefined. The device with the holder is adapted such that movement is possible, but only up to the predefined engagement position. The predefined engagement position, up to which movement can take place, in particular in the direction of the eye opposite to the direction of gaze, can be adjustable and individually adapted for the user. The engagement position can be adjusted by adjusting the movement of the holder, for example by setting a stop or a limiting device. However, it is also possible that the adjustment of the engagement position is carried out by adjusting one or more elements of the holder, for example by adjusting a length and/or a distance. Thus, even with a predetermined stop, different positions are possible in which the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can be brought into engagement with the eye of the user in the engagement position. Optionally, the non-engagement position can also be predefined. For example, the holder can be adapted to lock or to be detachably locked into a predefined non-engagement position. This facilitates handling in a defined state without causing unintended movement, such as the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user hitting the eye of the user too quickly.

The device can be adapted such that, in the predefined engagement position, movement of the holder toward the eye of the user is mechanically limited, in particular wherein the limitation can be adjustable. In other words, in the engagement position (treatment position), further movement beyond the limitation can be mechanically prevented, in particular in the direction of the eye against the direction of gaze. For example, this can prevent the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user from exerting excessive pressure on the eye. The limitation can be an adjustable limitation that can be customized for the user to provide a desired predefined engagement position. However, it is also a possibility that the engagement position is set by adjusting one or more elements of the holder, which in the engagement position can rest or abut against a non-adjustable predetermined stop or limiting device.

The device with the holder can be adapted such that the holder in the predefined engagement position abuts against an end stop provided by the frame. In other words, in the engagement position (treatment position), further movement beyond the engagement position can be prevented by the end stop. An end stop can refer to a defined mechanical limit, which can optionally be adjustable. For example, this can prevent the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user from exerting too much pressure on the eye. The end stop can be an adjustable end stop, which can be adjusted for the user to provide a desired predefined engagement position.

The holder can be a pivotable holder that is adapted to pivot back and forth between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position. An advantage can be that a pivoting movement provides easy handling and enables comfortable placement of the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user.

A radius for the pivoting movement can preferably be between 1 cm and 7 cm, in particular between 2 cm and 5 cm, in particular between 2.5 cm and 4 cm. For example, the holder can be provided with a rotary handle, with which the holder can be pivoted back and forth between the non-engagement position and the engagement position. The above-mentioned radii provide an advantageous relationship between the angular velocity of the pivoting movement with which the rotary handle can be operated and the speed at which the element is brought into contact with the eye of the user. If the movement is too slow, there is a risk that the user will blink during engagement. If the movement is too fast, however, there is a risk that engagement will be perceived as uncomfortable.

The device with the holder can be adapted such that the holder can be moved back and forth between the non-engagement position and the engagement position via at least one predefined intermediate position, which is located between the non-engagement position and the engagement position. In particular, a latching device can be provided to hold the holder in the predefined intermediate position. For example, the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can with the predefined intermediate position be brought into proximity of the eye in a first step and only be brought into engagement in a further step. This can further facilitate handling, in particular for visually impaired users.

The holder can be adapted to move the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into the engagement position by a rotary movement, wherein an axis of rotation for the rotary movement is a vertical axis. A vertical axis in this context refers to a vertical axis regarding a wearing position of the device on the head of the user. An advantage of this embodiment can be that the holder can be moved into the engagement position, for example, by swiveling or pivoting it sideways, and minimal leverage effect acts on the eye.

The holder can be adapted to move the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into the engagement position by a rotary movement, wherein an axis of rotation for the rotary movement is a horizontal axis. A horizontal axis in this context refers to a horizontal axis regarding a wearing position of the device on the head of the user. An advantage of this embodiment can be that the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, for example, from the front (opposite to the direction of gaze), in particular at an angle from below from the front. This can facilitate insertion through open eyelids without getting caught on the eyelashes.

In a further refinement, the horizontal axis can lie in a vertical direction above the eye of the users. The holder can be arranged to place the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user horizontally on the eye of the user. The holder can be adapted to apply onto or bring into engagement the eye of the user the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user by an eccentric swivel movement. This enables easy handling and, at the same time, an advantageous trajectory for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into the engagement position.

The holder can have an actuating handle for moving the holder between the non-engagement position and the engagement position. In particular, the actuating handle can be arranged in the axial direction along the axis of rotation. An advantage of this embodiment can be ease of use. The actuating handle can be a rotary handle. An advantage of this embodiment may be that an actuating handle in the form of a rotary handle can also be easily actuated with motor impairments of the fingers, as is often the case with elderly people. Hereby, the axis of rotation for rotation into the engagement position can lie within the rotary handle. In particular, the axis of rotation can coincide with a central axis of the rotary handle. An advantage of this embodiment can be that the torque associated with the rotation of the rotary handle is independent of the settings or distances of the individual sections of the electrode holders from the axis of rotation and, in particular, does not depend on the settings of the lengths of the legs for the electrode holders. The actuating handle can in particular be a rotary handle which is arranged in the temporal direction besides the holder. In other words, the rotary handle can be arranged in the axial direction, in particular to the right of a right-hand holder or to the left of a left-hand holder. The arrangement of rotary handles on the left and/or right can in particular allow a one-handed rotation when the device is in place. Arranging the rotary handle in line and in extension with the axis of rotation can, in particular, prevent unwanted force being exerted on the eye. For example, a lever effect, that could occur with an actuating handle not arranged in the axial direction along the axis of rotation, can be avoided or at least reduced.

The holder can comprise an actuating handle for moving the holder between the non-engagement position and the engagement position. The actuation handle can protrude/project (in horizontal direction) beyond the frame of the device. An advantage of this embodiment can be ease of use. In particular, an actuation handle protruding horizontally beyond the frame can be operated without touching and possibly contaminating the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user. The actuating handle, in particular a rotary handle, can be arranged temporally at least partially outside the frame. An advantage can be that the actuating handle does not obscure the central field of view when the holder is in the engagement position.

The holder can comprise an actuating handle for moving the holder between the non-engagement position and the engagement position, wherein the device is adapted such that the actuating handle is arranged outside the user's field of view, in particular outside the user's central field of view. In particular, the device can be arranged such that the actuating handle is arranged outside a central field of view of the user in the engagement position. The actuating handle can be a rotary handle. The electrode holder and actuating handle can be adapted and arranged such that, in particular, the user's central field of view remains free, especially in the engagement position and/or optionally in the non-engagement position. An advantage of this embodiment can be that handling is further improved. In particular, with the proposed arrangement outside the field of view, the likelihood of an unwanted eyelid closure reflex when applying a stimulation electrode to the eye of the user can be reduced.

The holder can be adapted to be moved back and forth between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position single-handedly and/or without tools. In other words, the device with the holder can be adapted accordingly. By configuring the device with the holder such that the holder can be moved back and forth between a non-engagement position and a predefined engagement position without tools, it is clarified that this is a movement that the user can easily perform multiple times during operation. In particular, the movement can be performed by the user themselves after the device has already been adjusted to the user, in particular after the device has already been placed on the head of the user. Preferably, no friction connection is provided. By adapting the device with the holder such that the holder can be moved back and forth between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position with one hand or single-handedly, the user has another hand free, for example, to keep the eye open with the other hand. This further improves handling, in particular for a visually impaired user who wants to use the device without assistance.

The device can be adapted such that adjustments to all variable parts and their locking in the selected settings can be performed without tools. An advantage can be that adjustments can be made in a simple way.

The holder can be adapted such that the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can be brought into the predefined engagement position from the front of the eye of the user at an angle in the range of +/−30°, in particular at an angle in the range of +/−20° to the horizontal. An advantage of this embodiment can be that insertion through the eyelids is simplified. In particular, a predefined pivoting movement can take place, wherein, when inserting, preferably no “twisting” or sawing movement of the element occurs on the eye.

The holder can comprise a horizontal crossbar which is arranged at the frame adjusted in the horizontal direction.

An operating element for moving the holder in a horizontal direction relative to the frame can be arranged in the actuating handle. In other words, the actuating handle for moving the holder between the non-engagement position and the engagement position can be arranged together, wherein the operating element is arranged in the actuating handle. This structure can enable a coaxial arrangement of the actuating handle and the operating element. For example, an axis for a horizontal pivoting movement can coincide with an axis in whose longitudinal direction the holder is adjusted in the horizontal direction relative to the frame. This can enable a compact structure. In addition, this arrangement with the same axes can allow an intuitive operation. It can thus be sufficient to provide only one common arrangement comprising operating element and actuating handle per electrode holder. The proposed arrangement can facilitate operation, in particular for visually impaired users. The commonly arranged operating elements could be easily detected tactile and actuated.

The holder can comprise a nasal vertical leg (vertical arm) and a temporal vertical leg (vertical arm), which extend downward in a vertical direction from the holder, in particular from a horizontal crossbar of the holder. The nasal vertical leg and/or the temporal vertical leg can optionally be length adjustable. The length adjustment of one or both of the legs can thus enable height adjustment of the element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user with respect to the eye of the user.

The holder can comprise a nasal horizontal leg (horizontal arm) and a temporal horizontal leg (horizontal arm), wherein the nasal horizontal leg comprises a first receptacle for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, wherein the temporal horizontal leg comprises a second receptacle for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user. The nasal horizontal leg and/or the temporal horizontal leg can optionally be length adjustable. The length adjustment of one or both of the legs can thus enable the distance adjustment between the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user with respect to the eye of the user. Thanks to the length adjustment(s), it is thus possible to easily adjust where the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user comes to rest when the holder is in the predefined engagement position.

The first receptacle of the nasal horizontal leg and the second receptacle of the temporal horizontal leg can have a fixed horizontal distance between them. An advantage of this specific embodiment can be that an element to be received by the two receptacles does not have to be adjusted for different distances.

For example, the element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user can be a stimulation electrode arrangement. The stimulation electrode arrangement can comprise a first electrode carrier and a second electrode carrier, wherein the stimulation electrode is arranged between the first electrode carrier and the second electrode carrier. The stimulation electrode arrangement can be provided in a blister pack in which the first and second electrode carriers are arranged at a defined distance from each other, wherein the defined distance corresponds to the fixed horizontal distance between the first receptacle of the nasal horizontal leg and the second receptacle of the temporal horizontal leg. Even though the holder is adjustable, the fixed distance between the receptacles allows easy removal directly from a predetermined arrangement in which the elements to be received are also provided at the fixed predetermined distance. An effort required for inventory of stimulation electrode arrangements can thus be reduced. Furthermore, hygiene can be improved, as the stimulation electrode does not have to be removed by hand and the distance between the two electrode carriers does not have to be adjusted manually.

In an advantageous embodiment, the nasal vertical leg and the temporal vertical leg can extend downward from the horizontal crossbar of the holder in a vertical direction. The nasal horizontal leg can be arranged at a lower end of the nasal vertical leg. The temporal horizontal leg can be arranged at a lower end of the temporal vertical leg. In particular, the components can be arranged such that a free optical path is provided in the user's gaze direction.

In a further refinement, the nasal vertical leg and the temporal vertical leg can be arranged orthogonal to the crossbar of the holder. The nasal horizontal leg and the temporal horizontal leg can be arranged orthogonal to the crossbar of the holder. The nasal horizontal leg can be arranged orthogonal to the nasal vertical leg. The temporal horizontal leg can be arranged orthogonal to the temporal vertical leg. An advantage of this arrangement can be that the device is flexible and adaptable to the user in a simple way with elements in a defined orientation with respect to each other. Furthermore, even when the holder is in the predefined engagement position, a free optical path can be provided for the user. This can improve the perceived wearing comfort during treatment, for example during electrostimulation of the eye.

The nasal vertical leg and/or the temporal vertical leg and/or the nasal horizontal leg and/or the temporal horizontal leg can each be length adjustable respectively with a threaded spindle. For example, a respective rotary handle can be provided for actuation of the threaded spindle. During the present application an accurate adjustment of the desired length is thus possible.

The holder can be adapted to bring the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user at a first support point and a second support point into engagement with the eye of the user in the engagement position. The holder can be adapted to adjust the first support point in three spatial directions and to adjust the second support point in three spatial directions. However, preferably exactly one spatial direction is coupled such that the first and second support points can have a fixed distance in this spatial direction. An advantage of this solution may be that reliably reproducible support points can be provided. Two support points can be provided per eye, each of which can be adapted to the user in three coordinate axes. A distance or separation can be advantageously fixedly defined, such that, for example, an element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user with a defined separation can be received, for example from a package, in particular a blister pack, as exemplarily described herein.

Various elements to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user are conceivable. Within the scope of the present disclosure, an element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user can also refer to an element to be applied on an eye of the user. As mentioned at the outset, the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can be a stimulation electrode or stimulation electrode arrangement. The element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can also be a contact lens; wherein the holder is a holder for the contact lens and is adapted to apply the contact lens to the eye of the user in the predefined engagement position.

Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system for electrostimulation of the eye with a device (as disclosed herein) and a stimulation electrode arrangement for electrostimulation of the eye, wherein the element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user is a stimulation electrode and wherein the holder is an electrode holder for the stimulation electrode. The holder and the device can be adapted as described above or as exemplarily explained in the present disclosure.

The holder can hold the stimulation electrode directly or indirectly. The stimulation electrode arrangement comprises the stimulation electrode. However, the stimulation electrode arrangement can also comprise, for example, one or more electrode carriers and be attached to the holder via the electrode carriers.

Here, the nose part can have a nose clip and two eye brackets, to which respectively one electrode holder is attached.

Here, the eye brackets furthermore are preferably electrically insulated from one another and contacted individually such that a therapy with different current strengths for the two eyes is possible.

Here, the arrangement for holding the frame has two earpieces which are fixed to the nosepiece, preferably fixed thereto in foldable fashion, in a manner known per se. The arrangement for holding the frame can also comprise side arms of variable width, in particular spring-loaded variable width side arms.

The frame can have a forehead abutment (forehead stop). When placed on the head, the forehead abutment can rest against the user's forehead and limit movement of the device in the direction towards the eyes of the user. This can be advantageous compared with a device that only has a nose part and which can be moved back and forth on the back on the nose ridge. In particular, the forehead abutment can further improve positioning accuracy also in the engagement position and preferably prevent excessive pressure from being exerted on the eye of the user by the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user in the engagement position.

In general, it is further preferable for a device and system for electrostimulation, if a counter electrode for the stimulation electrode is provided.

a) providing a device, in particular as described in the present disclosure; b) placing (putting on) the device on the head of the user, wherein the holder is in the non-engagement position; and c) moving the holder from the non-engagement position to the predefined engagement position after placing the device on the head of the user to bring the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into engagement with the eye of the user. Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a method, in particular a method for applying a stimulation electrode of a device for electrostimulation of the eye to the eye of the user, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

The optional further embodiments and refinements described for the device according to the first aspect apply accordingly to the further aspects of the present disclosure, i.e., in particular to the system, in particular for electrostimulation of the eye, and the method.

Further advantages are apparent from the description of the accompanying drawing.

It is to be understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

1 FIG. 1 1 10 30 20 20 shows, as an example for illustration purposes, a systemfor electrostimulation of the eye of a user or patient. The systemcomprises a devicewith a holderand an elementto be brought into engagement with the eye of the user. In the present example, a device for electrostimulation of the eye is provided, in which a stimulation electrode arrangementis to be brought into engagement with the eye.

10 11 12 12 11 13 14 13 14 12 13 14 12 15 18 4 FIG. The devicecomprises a spectacle-like framewith a nose partand an arrangement connected to the nose partfor holding the frame on the head of the patient. The arrangement for holding the frameon the head of the patient can comprise two temples or side arms,, as is usual with spectacles. Optionally, the side arms,can be attached to the nose partin a foldable manner. The side arms,can also be connected to the nose partin a width-variable way via spring elements. In this way, it is possible to flexibly adapt the device to the user's head, as shown by the arrowsin.

11 17 4 FIG. The device or framecan optionally comprise a forehead abutment, as shown in. In a worn state, the forehead abutment can rest or abut against the user's forehead and limit movement of the device in a direction toward the eyes of the user. This can be advantageous compared with a device without a forehead abutment, which, for example, only has a nose part and which can be moved back and forth on the nose ridge. For example, this can prevent the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user from exerting too much pressure on the eye.

30 11 30 The device also comprises a holderarranged on framefor an element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user. The holderis adapted to be moved back and forth between a non-engagement position and a predefined engagement position.

1 2 FIGS.and 3 FIG. 4 FIG. 20 20 11 show the holderin the non-engagement position.shows the holderin the predefined engagement position.illustrates the framewithout the holder.

30 20 21 30 30 11 30 21 1 FIG. In the present example, the holderis an electrode holder for a stimulation electrode arrangementwith a stimulation electrode. The holdercan be arranged to pivot back and forth between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position. In particular, the pivotable holdercan be moved back and forth between a raised position, as the non-engagement position, and a defined treatment position, as an engagement position. In the example shown in, the holder is in a raised position. This enables a patient to place the spectacle-like frameon their head with the holderin the non-engagement position. This makes handling easier. In a first step, only the spectacle-like frame is put on; it is however not yet necessary to apply the stimulation electrodeonto the eye in the same step.

11 30 21 21 21 23 24 Only after the spectacle-like framehas been placed on the head is the holderlowered and moved into the predefined engagement position. In the case of a device for electrostimulation of the eye, the stimulation electrodecan come into contact or engagement with the front surface of the eye in the engagement position. The stimulation electrodepreferably curves outwards so that it can fit snugly against the curvature of the eye surface, in particular the cornea. This is possible because the stimulation electrodeis flexible and can be held flexibly in the second electrode carriervia the weight body.

10 30 30 30 30 30 30 21 30 21 30 30 30 30 1 3 FIGS.and 2 FIG. The devicepreferably comprises two separate holders,′. For simplicity, only one holder is illustrated in. The second holder′ is schematically illustrated inbehind the first holder. The devicecan comprise a left holder′ for an element to be brought into engagement with a left eye of the user, in particular for a stimulation electrodefor the left eye, and a right holderfor an element to be brought into engagement with a right eye of the user, in particular for a stimulation electrodefor the right eye. The left holder′ and the right holderare adapted to be moved separately from each other between a respective non-engagement position and a respective engagement position. The features described for the right holderapply accordingly to the left holder′.

11 52 4 FIG. The arrangement of the separate holders for the right and left eyes can also be seen in the perspective view of the spectacle-like framein, with the respective receptaclesin which the rotary axes for the separate holders for the right and left eyes can be mounted.

1 FIG. 2 FIG. 3 FIG. 30 51 51 11 In the example shown in, the holdercan, for example, be moved back and forth between the raised non-engagement position (see) and the defined engagement position (see) via an actuating handlearranged at the side. The actuating handleprojects or protrudes horizontally beyond the frame.

30 11 52 52 53 54 53 The holderis hereby mounted on the spectacle-like framesuch that it can by the receptaclesbe rotated or pivoted. For example, with a bearing in the receptacle, as illustrated for an electrode holder which is not shown for the left eye. The axis of rotation is designated with. The rotation is designated with reference sign. In the present example, the horizontal axislies in the vertical direction above the eyes of the user and therefore does not interfere with the user's gaze. Alternatively, the axis of rotation for the rotational movement can be a vertical axis.

1 FIG. 53 21 21 In the embodiment shown in, the horizontal axis of rotationin the engagement position is also further away from the eye of the user in the direction of view than the stimulation electrode. As a result, the swiveling movement into the eye is essentially horizontal, but with a slight angle from below, in order to bring the stimulation electrodeinto engagement with the eye of the user. This has proven to be advantageous, as the lower lid can be pulled down slightly by the user during swiveling. The eyelashes are thus not in the way and engagement is facilitated.

However, other configurations are also possible. Preferably, the holder is adapted to bring the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into the predefined engagement position from the front of the eye of the user at an angle in the range of +/−30°, in particular at an angle in the range of +/−20° to the horizontal.

30 30 30 1 FIG. Separate holders,′ can be provided for the right eye and the left eye. For simplicity, only one holder, here an electrode holder, is illustrated in.

20 30 20 22 23 21 22 23 30 The stimulation electrode arrangementis attached to the electrode holder, preferably magnetically. In the shown example, the stimulation electrode arrangementcomprises a first electrode carrierand a second electrode carrier. The stimulation electrodeis arranged between the first electrode carrierand the second electrode carrier. The first and/or second electrode carrier are adapted to be magnetically attached to the electrode holder.

1 FIG. 5 8 FIGS.to 30 32 33 32 33 22 32 23 33 30 In the example shown in, the electrode holdercan comprise a first, nasal electrode holder partand a second, temporal electrode holder part. The first, nasal electrode holder partcan also be referred to as the nose-side electrode holder part. The second, temporal electrode holder partcan also be referred to as the temple-side electrode holder part. The first electrode carrieris a nasal electrode carrier and is adapted to be magnetically attached to a receptacle of the nasal electrode holder part. The second electrode carrieris a temporal electrode carrier and is adapted to be magnetically attached to a receptacle of the temporal electrode holder part. The configuration of an exemplary holderis explained in more detail further below with reference to.

21 30 In an assembled state, the stimulation electrodeis electrically conductively connected to a stimulation device for electrostimulation of the eye. Preferably, the electrical connection is provided via the electrode holder. The stimulation device generates the desired electrical signals for electrostimulation. Any stimulation device can be used as the stimulation device that can emit suitable stimulation signals, in particular sine waves or pulsed electrostimulation signals for the treatment of the eye.

11 19 1 FIG. The stimulation device can be integrated into the spectacle-like frame. This is schematically illustrated inby reference signand control elements for starting or pausing the electrostimulation. However, the stimulation device can also be provided as an external stimulation device.

16 In order to close the electric circuit for electrostimulation, counter electrodescan also be provided, which can, for example, be attached to the patient's forehead or earlobe.

20 21 21 20 In the context of the present disclosure, the stimulation device may be a device for stimulating and/or measuring. For example, a stimulation signal can be generated which can be applied via the stimulation electrode arrangementwith the stimulation electrode. However, it can also, for example, be an ERG apparatus with which an electroretinogram can be recorded, which is acquired with the stimulation electrodeof the stimulation electrode arrangement.

2 FIG. 3 FIG. 30 30 One or more predefined intermediate positions (not illustrated) can be provided between the non-engagement position shown inand the predefined engagement position shown in. The holdercan be adapted to be moved back and forth between the non-engagement position and the engagement position via at least one predefined intermediate position located between the non-engagement position and the engagement position, in particular wherein a latching device is provided to hold the holderin the predefined intermediate position.

30 11 30 56 53 10 55 30 51 1 2 FIGS.and To adjust the positioning of the holderrelative to the frame, the holdercan be adapted to be moved in a horizontal direction, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the axis. This enables an adjustment of the devicefor different eye distances. An operating elementfor this horizontal displacement, for example by a threaded spindle arranged in the holder, can be arranged in the actuating handle, as exemplarily shown in.

2 4 FIGS.and 5 FIG. 3 FIG. 58 11 30 30 57 57 30 58 11 57 58 As shown in, an end stopcan be provided at the frame, against which the holderabuts in the predefined engagement position. For this, the holdercan comprise a corresponding abutment surface, as shown in. In the predefined engagement position, the abutment surfaceof the holderrests against the end stopof the frame, as shown in. Accordingly, the abutment surfacedoes not abut against the end stopin the non-engagement position.

54 53 52 Alternatively, the predefined engagement position can also be limited or defined in other ways, for example by limiting the rotationabout the axis of rotation. This can also be achieved, for example, with an end stop in the respective receptacles.

2 FIG. 3 4 FIGS.and 62 11 10 62 64 63 The side view inalso shows a nose supportwith which the frameof the devicecan be supported on the user's nose. The nose support can also be adjustable. For example, the nose supportcan be adjustable in length or heightwith a control element, as shown in.

5 7 FIGS.- 1 4 FIGS.- 30 11 10 11 30 54 30 With reference to, an embodiment of a holder according to aspects of the present disclosure is explained in more detail. The holderis adapted to be arranged at a frame, as shown, for example, in, wherein the devicewith the frameand the holderis adapted to be moved back and forth between a non-engagement position and a predefined engagement position. For example, by a pivoting movement as schematically illustrated by arrow. In order for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user to be correctly positioned, the holdercan provide several adjustment options.

20 22 34 21 24 21 22 32 23 33 99 22 23 The example shown again relates to a device for electrostimulation of the eye with a stimulation electrode arrangementcomprising a nasal electrode carrier, a temporal electrode carrier, and a stimulation electrodearranged between them, to which a weight bodyis connected in order to tension the stimulation electrode. The nasal electrode carrieris attached to an adjustable nasal electrode holder part. The temporal electrode carrieris attached to an adjustable temporal electrode holder part. A distancein the horizontal direction is preferably a constant distance k. The stimulation electrode arrangement can also be provided, for example in a blister package, such that the nasal electrode carrierand the temporal electrode carrierare provided with the same constant distance k and can be attached in a simple manner.

5 6 FIGS.and 4 FIG. 30 57 57 57 30 11 58 As shown in, the holdercan comprise a stop surface, in particular an adjustable stop surface. Depending on how far the stop surfaceprotrudes, the inclination of the holderrelative to the framecan be varied with the end stop(see).

5 7 FIGS.- 6 FIG. 30 81 82 83 81 30 82 83 81 30 82 83 20 91 As shown in, the holdercomprises a horizontal crossbar. The holder also comprises a nasal vertical legand a temporal vertical leg, which extend downward in a vertical direction from the horizontal crossbarof the holder. The nasal vertical legand the temporal vertical legare arranged orthogonally to the crossbarof the holder. In the context of the present disclosure, “orthogonal” refers to a substantially orthogonal arrangement, in particular an arrangement at an angle of 90°+/−30°, in particular +/−20°, in particular +/−10°. The nasal vertical legand/or the temporal vertical leg, preferably both, are adjustable in length. This allows the position of the element to be brought into engagement with an eye of the user, in this case the stimulation electrode arrangement, to be adjusted. This is shown inby arrowfor an adjustment in the vertical direction v.

5 FIG. 6 FIG. 83 83 93 92 83 In the side view of, the temporal vertical legis shown in the retracted state. In the side view in, the temporal vertical legis shown in the extended state. For example, the adjustment can be made by a rotary wheeland an (internal) threaded spindle. Several markings can be provided to facilitate a defined length adjustment. An advantage of the proposed solution can be that a tool-free adjustment is enabled. In particular, the proposed solution with threaded spindles allows for fine adjustment and, at the same time, easy operation for visually impaired users. The lengths of the legscan, for example, be changed without tools by threaded spindles and optionally fixed after manual adjustment.

5 7 FIGS.- 6 FIG. 30 84 85 84 82 85 83 84 22 20 85 23 20 84 85 20 94 As shown in, the holdercan further comprise a nasal horizontal legand a temporal horizontal leg. The nasal horizontal legis arranged at a lower (length-adjustable) end of the nasal vertical leg. The temporal horizontal legis arranged at a lower (length-adjustable) end of the temporal vertical leg. The vertical and horizontal legs can be arranged orthogonally to each other. The nasal horizontal legcomprises a first receptacle for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, here for the first electrode carrierof the stimulation electrode arrangement. The temporal horizontal legcomprises a second receptacle for the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, here for the second electrode carrierof the stimulation electrode arrangement. The nasal horizontal legand/or the temporal horizontal leg, preferably both, are adjustable in length. Thereby the position of the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, here the stimulation electrode arrangement, can be adjusted. This is illustrated inby the arrowfor adjustment in the horizontal direction h.

5 FIG. 6 FIG. 85 85 96 95 The side view inshows the temporal horizontal legin the retracted position. The side view inshows the temporal horizontal legin the extended position. For example, adjustment can be made by a rotary wheeland an (internal) threaded spindle. Several markings can be provided to facilitate a defined length adjustment.

7 FIG. 82 83 As shown in, a free optical path can be provided between the legs,of the holder in the direction of gaze of the user. This increases wearing comfort and user acceptance, in particular during longer applications.

30 Once the electrode holderhas been adjusted, the electrode holder can with the fixed adjusted configuration be moved back and forth between the non-engagement position and the defined engagement position.

83 85 81 It is to be understood that the holder can also be adapted for another element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user, such as a contact lens. In this case, it can be sufficient to provide only one vertical legand horizontal legarranged centrally on the crossbarwith a receptacle for example for a contact lens.

The holder itself does not necessarily have to directly contact the eye of the user. One or more intermediate elements can also be provided, as shown in the present example by the stimulation electrode arrangement. Furthermore, engaging with the eye of the user is not limited to contacting the cornea, but also by contacting one or more regions, in particular skin areas, in the region of the eye. Transcutaneous measurement and/or stimulation is also conceivable.

8 FIG. 100 shows a flowchart of a method, in particular a method for applying a stimulation electrode of a device for electrostimulation of the eye to the eye of the user.

101 In a first step S, a device as disclosed herein is provided.

102 In a second step S, the device is placed on the head of the user, wherein the holder is in the non-engagement position.

103 In a third step S, after the device has been placed on the head of the user, the holder is moved from the non-engagement position to the predefined engagement position to bring the element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user into engagement with the eye of the user.

10 9 13 FIGS.- Further possible embodiments of the proposed deviceare explained in the following with reference to. It shall be understood that these are merely exemplary embodiments and that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Elements that have already been introduced above are designated by the same reference signs. In the following, optional advantageous further refinements and/or differences will be highlighted.

9 FIG. 4 FIG. 9 10 FIGS.and 12 13 FIGS.and 10 30 20 30 30 52 11 52 52 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a section of components of the devicewith the holderwith an electrode arrangementin a view from a top side. Here, a sectional view of the holderis shown. The holderis mounted by the receptacleson the spectacle-like framesuch that it can be rotated or pivoted (see). However, the receptacleis not shown inin order to illustrate the internal elements. The receptacleis shown in the illustrations in.

52 30 30 30 30 11 2 FIG. 3 FIG. In the example shown, a latching device is provided in receptacle. The latching device can be adapted to hold the holderin the predefined engagement position but also in a non-engagement position. As already described above, one or more predefined intermediate positions can be provided between the non-engagement position shown inand the predefined engagement position shown in. The holdercan be adapted to move back and forth between the non-engagement position and the engagement position via at least one predefined intermediate position located between the non-engagement position and the predefined engagement position. In the present example, the latching device is adapted to hold the holderin several predefined intermediate positions. The latching device can be adapted to provide a respective releasable form-fit connection in different latching positions in order to hold the electrode holderrelative to the framein the predefined engagement position, in the non-engagement position, and optionally in one or more intermediate positions.

71 72 71 30 72 11 52 For example, the latching device can be provided by corresponding latching elements,. A first latching elementis arranged on the holderor on the actuating handle. A second latching elementis arranged at the frame, in particular on the receptacle. The latching elements can, for example, be configured as corresponding gear rims which can engage with each other in several defined angular positions. The latching elements are thus configured to provide defined form-fit connections in various (predetermined) angular positions. In an embodiment, a first and a second angular position differ by at least 5°, in particular by at least 15°, in particular by at least 30°, in particular by at least 45°, in particular by at least 60°. Alternatively or in addition, a first and a second angular position differ by at most 270°, in particular by at most 225°, in particular by at most 180°, in particular by at most 150°. The difference refers to a maximum angle between the defined engagement position and a non-engagement position. Thus, a limited angle range may be provided for a pivoting movement, which can facilitate handling.

In the context of the present disclosure, preferably no frictional lock connection is provided. In the case of a friction lock connection, a force counteracting the frictional force must be applied in order to release the friction lock connection. This force causes a torque with an axis of rotation which, in the case of a movement away from the eye, lies at the point of contact of the side arm on the ear and, in the case of a movement towards the eye, lies at the point of contact of the nose support on the bridge of the nose. If the movement is away from the eye, this causes the entire device to move upwardly, at least until the friction lock is released. To prevent the device mounted on the nose from twisting and slipping, in particular if one of the electrodes has already been brought into engagement with an eye, a counterforce opposing the direction of rotation would have to be exerted with the second hand. This means that both hands must always be on the device in order to pivot the electrodes toward the eye. This would have the disadvantage that neither hand is free to push the eyelids down or upwardly, i.e., to keep the eye open when applying the stimulation electrode.

53 52 71 72 53 51 71 72 10 FIG. The proposed form-fit connection by a latching device, on the other hand, can offer one or more advantages. The latching device can be adapted such that a form-fit connection is released by a force acting predominantly parallel to the axisin the bearing. This can for example be achieved by two corresponding latching elements,arranged in particular on the axis. A schematic view of an actuating handlewith a first latching elementand a corresponding latching elementis illustrated in.

21 By releasing the form-fit latching, no or, at most, a lower force is caused, compared with a friction lock connection, that leads to rotation about an axis of rotation at the point of contact of the side wing or the nose support on the nose ridge. For moving the electrode holder from one latching position to the next, once the form-fit latching has been released, no or, at most, lower frictional forces need to be overcome. This reduces or eliminates the risk that by the rotational movement a stimulation electrodealready positioned on the surface of the eye shifts.

21 20 A further advantage can be that the rotational movement can be performed with only one hand (single-handed). The second hand remains free, for example, to pull down the lower eyelid so that the stimulation electrodeof the stimulation electrode arrangementcan be positioned on the lower half of the eye surface without for example during pivoting in touching the eyelashes.

72 52 54 72 52 73 74 72 73 52 74 75 52 72 71 75 56 9 11 FIGS.- 13 FIG. The latching elementin the shown embodiment is preferably rotationally fixedly connected to the frame or to the receptacle. However, the latching element can be mounted so that it can be displaced in the axial direction along the axis of rotation. For this purpose, the latching elementand the receptaclecan comprise corresponding guide elements,. In the present example, recesses are provided on the latching elementas guide elements, as illustrated in. Corresponding webs are provided on the receptacleas guide elements, as illustrated in. A spring elementcan be provided in the receptacle, which presses the latching elementin the direction of the corresponding latching element. The spring elementdefines a force that must be overcome in the axial directionin order to release the form-fit connection.

71 72 51 72 72 74 52 71 75 72 9 FIG. 11 FIG. In other words, the latching positions in the present embodiment are defined by the interlocking teeth of the first latching elementand the second latching element. The actuation of the pivoting mechanism via the actuating handlecauses the teeth to move against each other. The latching elementcan be moved in the axial direction. The latching elementis fixed by the two elongated grooves or recesses as a guide elementin the outer part, i.e., in the receptacle, and cannot be rotated. The release to rotate the corresponding latching elementis achieved by a spring element. Thereby, the flexibility is provided to rotate the latching elementand to turn one tooth further. Preferably, the guide element can be provided both on a top side, as shown in the top view in, and on a bottom side, as shown in the view in.

10 12 FIGS.and 10 12 FIGS.and 2 4 FIGS.and 30 11 30 30 51 76 52 77 76 77 76 77 57 58 54 53 52 Referring to the illustrations in, the holderand the framecan be adapted to mechanically limit a movement relative to each other. In particular, a limit can be set for an angular range of movement relative to each other. The holdercan be a pivoting holder. The angular range can be limited to an angular range of not more than 270°, in particular not more than 180°, in particular not more than 150°. In the embodiment shown in, the holderand the actuating handlecan comprise a stop. The receptaclecan provide a corresponding stop. For example, the stopcan be provided by a web or a raised section and the stopcan be provided by a corresponding recess or groove with a side surface serving as a stop. A desired angle of rotation can thus be defined in an easy way. It is to be understood that the stops,can also be provided multiple times, for example, upwardly and downwardly or offset by 180°. The limitation described here can in the alternative or in addition be provided to the limitation by the stop surfaces,, as illustrated in, in order to provide a predefined engagement position. Alternatively, the predefined engagement position can also be limited or defined in other ways, for example by limiting the rotationabout the axis of rotation. This can also be achieved, for example, with an end stop in the respective receptacles.

12 FIG. 1 9 FIGS.and 1 2 9 12 FIGS.,,, and 51 71 72 30 11 30 11 30 56 53 10 56 55 30 51 78 79 78 79 78 78 55 30 51 shows a schematic cross-sectional view with the actuating handleand the latching device with the latching elements,. Optionally, the holdercan be pivoted not only relative to the frame. In order to adjust the position of the holderrelative to the frame, the holdercan be adapted to be moved in the horizontal direction, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the axis. This enables the deviceto be adjusted for different eye separations. The adjustment in the horizontal direction is illustrated inwith arrow. An operating elementfor this horizontal displacement, for example by a threaded spindle arranged in the holder, can be arranged in the actuating handle, as illustrated in. This can be implemented by providing two coaxial shafts,. For example, an inner shaftcan be surrounded by an outer shaft. The inner shaftcan be coupled with operating element. A displacement can be provided, for example, by a threaded rod and a rotary movement on the operating element. A rotation of the holderrelative to the frame can be provided by a rotary movement on the actuating handle.

In conclusion, according to aspects of the present disclosure, the handling of a device, in particular a device for electrostimulation of the eye, can be further improved and a more comfortable user experience can be enabled. In particular, application of an element to be brought into engagement with the eye of the user can be facilitated.

It is to be understood that the foregoing description is of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but rather is defined solely by the claims below. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to the disclosed embodiment(s) and are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure or on the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

As used in this specification and claims, the terms “e.g.,” “for example,” “for instance,” “such as,” and “like,” and the verbs “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and their other verb forms, when used in conjunction with a listing of one or more components or other items, are each to be construed as open-ended, meaning that the listing is not to be considered as excluding other, additional components or items. Other terms are to be construed using their broadest reasonable meaning unless they are used in a context that requires a different interpretation. In addition, the term “and/or” is to be construed as an inclusive OR. Therefore, for example, the phrase “A, B, and/or C” is to be interpreted as covering all of the following: “A”; “B”; “C”; “A and B”; “A and C”; “B and C”; and “A, B, and C.”